What is a primary disadvantage of longer pulse durations in laser procedures?

Longer pulse durations in laser procedures can lead to an increased risk of overheating and damage to surrounding tissue. The fundamental principle behind laser therapy is the selective targeting of specific tissues while minimizing harm to adjacent structures. When the pulse duration is extended, the laser energy remains focused on the target for a longer period, allowing for greater heat accumulation in the treated area as well as the surrounding tissues. This heating can result in unintended thermal effects, leading to potential complications, such as blistering, scarring, or even deeper tissue damage.

In contrast to this risk, shorter pulse durations allow for quick energy delivery, which can enhance the precision of the laser's effect on the target while reducing the likelihood of thermal damage to surrounding areas. Because of this, practitioners must weigh the benefits of longer pulse durations—such as potentially greater overall effectiveness in certain indications—against the significant risk of collateral damage when performing laser treatments.